PARENTS are flocking to buy this festive essential for kids, which only costs £2.

The Christmas Eve boxes from Asda are massively popular among savvy-shoppers who say they will “last for years”.

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The box measures 27cm x 36cm x 12.6cm – meaning it has plenty of room to fill with trinkets.

Buyers can nab these from an Asda shop or online.

Though the website warns prices and promotions may vary when buying in-store.

As the big festive day quickly approaches, parents are on the hunt for a place to store their little one’s presents.

And amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, Brits are on the lookout for cheap gift boxes and hampers.

But with gift boxes selling for £100 from John Lewis or £85 at Fortnum and Mason, many might be left out of pocket.

Luckily, Asda’s Christmas Eve box costs as little as £2 – that’s cheaper than certain chocolate bars.

One happy customer said: “Have bought these boxes for about 10 yrs now always look nice and are strong.”

Whilst another commented: “These are perfect! Really good size and really good value for the price. Quite sturdy.”

For those with a sweet tooth the supermarket is also offering two boxes of Quality Street for just £9.

Or for an even better deal, shoppers can get their hands on a chocolate advent calendar for a whopping £1.50.

This comes as B&M shoppers rush to fill their baskets with an item which is perfect for the upcoming festive season.

Bargain hunters have been getting excited about Christmas tree plates which cost just 10p, having been reduced from £4.

One eagle-eyed shopper got their hands on one at their local store before spreading the word on social media.

They took to the Facebook group Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group to let others know.

The person wrote: “Christmas tree platters 10p each in B&M.”

On person commented: “If you see these please get me a couple xx.”

How American Airlines’ AAdvantage Program Became a Lifeline for the Airline Industry

When American Airlines launched the AAdvantage program in 1981, it set a precedent as the world’s first frequent flyer program. Originally designed as a way to reward loyal customers, the program has transformed into a core revenue source that has played a critical role in the airline’s survival during economic downturns. Today, AAdvantage represents much more than miles and rewards—it’s a central component of American Airlines’ financial strategy, especially as the airline navigates a challenging industry landscape.

The Evolution of AAdvantage: From Loyalty Perk to Business Pillar

AAdvantage was created with a straightforward goal: reward frequent travelers with miles that could be redeemed for flights. However, the program has since evolved into a multi-faceted business model that extends far beyond rewarding flyers. Today, members earn miles not just from flights, but through a vast network of partners including hotels, rental car companies, retailers, and co-branded credit card purchases. This diversification has allowed AAdvantage to become a significant revenue stream and one of American Airlines’ most valuable assets.

The turning point in the program’s evolution came when American Airlines realized that AAdvantage miles could be sold to credit card companies and other partners. Banks like Citibank and Barclays, for instance, purchase AAdvantage miles in bulk to offer as rewards to their cardholders, providing the airline with steady revenue streams independent of ticket sales. This strategy has allowed American Airlines to generate income from partnerships and consumer spending outside of the airline industry, securing its financial footing even when travel demand declines.

Financial Stability Through AAdvantage

AAdvantage has proven to be a cornerstone of financial stability for American Airlines, particularly during periods of economic hardship. In the third quarter of 2024, American Airlines reported record revenues of $13.6 billion, a success largely attributed to the strength of AAdvantage. By the end of the quarter, the airline held $11.8 billion in available liquidity, a testament to the program’s crucial role in supporting the airline’s financial health. Read more in American Airlines’ quarterly report.

During the pandemic, when the airline industry faced an unprecedented crisis with plummeting passenger numbers, AAdvantage served as a financial lifeline. The airline used the loyalty program’s projected future revenue as collateral for a $10 billion loan, helping American Airlines avoid bankruptcy and remain operational. This move underscored the program’s value not only as a customer loyalty tool but as a strategic asset capable of securing American Airlines’ financial resilience.

The program’s success has had a ripple effect, making American Airlines a valuable partner for banks and credit card companies. Selling miles to these institutions has become a lucrative business model, providing consistent revenue that bolsters the airline’s finances and buffers it from economic fluctuations that impact ticket sales.

Partnerships and Customer Engagement

The AAdvantage program’s profitability is largely driven by its extensive network of partnerships, particularly with major financial institutions like Citibank and Barclays. By selling miles to these partners, American Airlines generates billions in revenue as banks offer AAdvantage miles to their customers through co-branded credit cards. These partnerships enable American Airlines to maintain steady income even during slow travel seasons, insulating it from the volatility of the airline industry.

Consumers benefit as well, with co-branded credit cards allowing them to earn AAdvantage miles on everyday purchases, such as groceries and dining. This structure creates a mutually beneficial relationship between American Airlines and its customers. For travelers, the program provides access to benefits like priority boarding, seat upgrades, and exclusive events, all of which enhance their experience and build loyalty to the airline.

AAdvantage also provides American Airlines with valuable data on customer behavior and preferences, which the airline uses to tailor promotions and improve the customer experience. By analyzing this data, American Airlines can better understand what matters most to its customers, from preferred destinations to spending patterns, and leverage this insight to maintain customer loyalty in an increasingly competitive market.

Challenges and Adaptations: The Future of AAdvantage

Despite its success, AAdvantage faces challenges in adapting to evolving market dynamics and regulatory scrutiny. As frequent flyer programs have grown into significant revenue sources for airlines, they have also drawn regulatory attention. In September 2024, the U.S. Department of Transportation launched an investigation into frequent flyer programs to ensure they are fair and transparent for consumers. This increased scrutiny could lead to policy changes that may impact the future operations of AAdvantage and other loyalty programs.

Additionally, consumer expectations around loyalty programs are shifting. While AAdvantage has traditionally rewarded travelers with flight-related perks, today’s consumers seek flexibility, transparency, and sustainable practices. Many travelers now expect more options for redeeming points, not only for flights but for hotels, dining, and even non-travel-related rewards. AAdvantage has responded by allowing members to redeem miles for various travel-related expenses and by incorporating eco-friendly initiatives, such as carbon offset options, into its rewards structure.

As loyalty becomes increasingly digital and consumers become more discerning, AAdvantage continues to innovate. American Airlines has adapted the program to allow for personalized offers and promotions that reflect individual customer preferences. By continually enhancing the program, American Airlines positions AAdvantage as more than just a frequent flyer program; it is a dynamic platform for customer engagement and long-term loyalty.

AAdvantage as a Model for Modern Loyalty Programs

American Airlines’ AAdvantage program has evolved from a simple rewards initiative into a powerful asset that supports the airline’s financial stability and competitiveness. By leveraging strategic partnerships, expanding customer engagement, and adapting to regulatory and consumer changes, AAdvantage has become integral to American Airlines’ business model. Its ability to generate revenue independently of ticket sales and adapt to changing customer preferences illustrates how loyalty programs can drive value far beyond their original purpose.

In a rapidly shifting economic landscape, AAdvantage is likely to remain a crucial component of American Airlines’ success strategy, providing a buffer against industry volatility and reinforcing the airline’s financial resilience. As other airlines seek ways to remain financially stable and competitive, the evolution of AAdvantage offers a compelling blueprint for how loyalty programs can grow beyond perks and points into critical business assets.

ALDI shoppers are rushing to bag one of the retailer’s most popular festive items that have been brought back this year.

The discount retailer’s Christmas mascot Kevin the Carrot is back on screens and in stores after his television debut in 2016.

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The animated vegetable has taken on several missions since his arrival, making Brits fall in love with the character.

As well as reviving him this year, Aldi has also brought back the Kevin the Carrot advent calendar described as a “seasonal sellout.”

“Countdown to Christmas with Kevin,” Aldi tells fans.

Behind each door, customers will find a chocolate member of Kevin’s extensive vegetable family.

Aldi calls it “the perfect morning ritual for kids and grown-ups alike throughout December.”

But, shoppers will have to be quick because “once they’re gone, they’re gone.”

The advent calendar which hit shelves on November 7 has already been scooped up by hundreds of shoppers, some of whom have been spotted online trying to re-sell the item for a profit.

A Facebook page dedicated to bargains urged followers to “Pick up this Kevin The Carrot Advent Calendar for £1.49 at Aldi.”

“Omg!!! Didn’t know these existed!” one excited shopper commented under another post.

“Diane you’d better make that 15 advent Calendars.”

“I’ve got a Kevin the Carrot advent calendar. I got mine the other day. I’m a big fan of Kevin the carrot,” another added.

“If you don’t get me one of these I’ll be fuming,” a third said, tagging a member of their family.

One fan just simply wrote: “Want one.”

OTHER FESTIVE TREATS

And it’s not just people who can enjoy counting down to Christmas with a daily treat supplied by Aldi.

Beloved pets can get in on the fun too with Langham’s Meaty Dog Biscuit Advent Calendar which hit Aldi’s shelves on October 27.

The £3.99 advent calendar contains 24 treats with four different flavours – Chicken, Lamb, Duck, and Beef.

And for those who still just can’t get enough of Kevin, there are other festive offerings from the much-loved vegetable mascot.

There is a new collection of Kevin the Carrot plush toys featuring a moustachioed Kevin and his partner Katie who has lipstick and a bow.

They are £3.99 with their outfits reflecting their disguises from this year’s Aldi advert as they try to save Christmas from Dr Humbug who also has a plushy toy in the middle aisle.

There are also Kevin and Katie tree decorations, pyjamas, and a children’s book.

Jemma Townsend, Marketing Director at Aldi UK, said: “Would it even be Christmas without Kevin the Carrot on our screens?

“We’re delighted to bring back everyone’s favourite carrot for a ninth year to help the nation get into the Christmas spirit.”

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Inside Dave Portnoy’s Wealth: How the Barstool Sports Founder Built a $150 Million Empire

Dave Portnoy is best known as the candid and sometimes controversial founder of Barstool Sports. Though his fans love his outspoken personality on the “BFFs” podcast and his reputation as a Swiftie, they often overlook his role as the CEO and driving force behind Barstool Sports. Over two decades, Portnoy has grown Barstool into a multi-platform media powerhouse, bringing him immense success and a net worth estimated at $150 million.

How Dave Portnoy Built Barstool Sports from the Ground Up

Portnoy’s journey to wealth began in 2003 when he launched Barstool Sports as a print publication. Initially focused on fantasy sports, gaming advertisements, and sports commentary, it was a niche publication targeted at Boston’s sports-loving community. In 2007, Portnoy took Barstool online, a move that proved transformative. The brand expanded from print to digital, reaching an audience far beyond Boston and allowing for rapid growth in a digital media landscape hungry for fresh content.

As Portnoy diversified Barstool’s offerings, the brand evolved into much more than a sports site. Today, Barstool includes podcasts, videos, gambling content, merchandise, branded alcohol products, and even television shows. The platform has become a hub for both sports and pop culture, attracting millions of followers on social media and maintaining a strong, engaged fan base.

Portnoy’s hands-on approach and knack for tapping into popular trends helped Barstool expand further. His “One Bite” pizza reviews, where he samples and rates pizzas from various restaurants, have amassed a cult following, increasing his personal brand and helping to build Barstool’s loyal fanbase.

Partnerships, Acquisitions, and the $450 Million Deal with Penn National Gaming

In 2016, Barstool Sports attracted major investment when The Chernin Group acquired a majority stake in the company. This influx of capital allowed Barstool to scale even further, expanding its reach and brand influence. However, the most significant deal came in 2020 when Penn National Gaming, a major player in the gaming industry, acquired a 36% stake in Barstool for $163 million. This investment valued Barstool at a staggering $450 million, underscoring its growth from a small print publication to a media empire.

The deal with Penn National Gaming marked a new era for Barstool, positioning it as a key player in the sports betting world. Penn’s partnership allowed Barstool to launch the Barstool Sportsbook app, enabling fans to engage in sports betting, a lucrative area of the sports entertainment industry. As the U.S. expands sports betting legalization, Barstool Sportsbook has become a significant revenue generator for both Barstool and Penn National Gaming.

However, in a surprising turn of events, Portnoy regained full control of Barstool in 2023 when he bought back the company from Penn for just $1. This strategic move came after Penn shifted its focus to a partnership with ESPN for its sports betting ventures. For Portnoy, reclaiming ownership of Barstool provided the freedom to steer the company independently, a position he seems to relish.

Dave Portnoy’s Podcasting Success and Other Ventures

Apart from Barstool Sports, Portnoy’s personal brand has been bolstered by his ventures into podcasting and other media. His hit podcast “BFFs,” cohosted with Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia and Josh Richards, has been wildly successful, blending pop culture, social media, and insider gossip. On November 13, 2024, Portnoy announced his departure from “BFFs,” leaving a lasting mark on the show and its fans.

Portnoy’s media presence extends beyond Barstool’s channels. His bold, no-filter style has resonated with audiences and attracted fans who appreciate his authenticity. His pizza reviews, for instance, have become iconic, with fans frequently recognizing him as “the pizza guy” as much as the CEO of Barstool.

Portnoy’s ventures have not been without controversy, and his outspoken nature has occasionally led to clashes with other public figures. Nevertheless, his approach has consistently drawn attention and bolstered his personal brand, which remains closely tied to Barstool’s identity.

The Breakdown of Dave Portnoy’s Net Worth

As of 2024, Portnoy’s net worth is estimated to be around $150 million. Much of this wealth can be attributed to his stake in Barstool Sports, along with income from his various media projects and ventures. Portnoy’s wealth is a reflection of his entrepreneurial spirit, his ability to capitalize on cultural trends, and his knack for building a brand that resonates with audiences.

His investments outside Barstool have also contributed to his financial success. While not all of Portnoy’s ventures are publicly known, his influence and wealth have allowed him to invest in various sectors and expand his financial footprint beyond Barstool’s media reach.

Despite his wealth, Portnoy has maintained a strong connection to his audience, often presenting himself as a relatable figure who is unafraid to share his opinions. This transparency has helped him retain the loyalty of Barstool’s fans, who view him as a central part of the brand’s identity.

What’s Next for Dave Portnoy and Barstool Sports?

With Portnoy back in full control of Barstool Sports, the future looks promising for both him and the company. Freed from corporate restrictions, Portnoy has the flexibility to continue expanding Barstool’s brand in ways that align with his original vision. His reacquisition of the company from Penn National Gaming symbolizes his commitment to keeping Barstool unique and fiercely independent.

Portnoy’s focus will likely remain on expanding Barstool’s reach in sports, entertainment, and lifestyle content, while also leveraging his own personal brand. Given the success of Barstool Sportsbook, sports betting could remain a priority, especially as more states legalize betting and the industry continues to grow.

As Portnoy himself has said, “Barstool is my life’s work.” With his hands firmly back on the reins, there’s little doubt he will continue to grow both Barstool and his personal empire, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in modern digital media.

THOUSANDS of pensioners are expected to receive £130 worth of vouchers tomorrow to help with the cost of living.

For those who need a little bit of help this time of year, the Household Support Fund offers some assistance to low-income households.

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Those eligible for the payouts will receive the cash slips automatically, according to Wakefield Council.

These also won’t affect any other benefits entitlements.

How much will I receive?

The Household Support Fund is worth £421million and aims to help with gas, electricity, and food during the winter months.

It’ll be split across local authorities that will individually decide who is eligible.

Pensioners who no longer receive the Winter Fuel Allowance (Pension Credit) will bag £130 worth of vouchers.

Those still on Pension Credit will be entitled to £80 of supermarket goodies.

They can expect to have these in their accounts between 6 and 15 November.

All other households in receipt of Council Tax Support will be offered £80 and can expect to receive their payment next month.

Who can apply?

Wakefield Council have recently released the conditions of their eligibility scheme.

To qualify for the voucher from this council you must live in Wakefield, be over the age of 16 and not living with family or friends, be responsible for the rent, receive a low income, and have no access to other public funds.

Recipients should expect vouchers to arrive within seven days.

Full instructions on how redeem the voucher will be included in the letter.

Once the voucher has been redeemed, it doesn’t have to be spent all at once and can be used several times until the entire amount has been spent.

What if I don’t live in Wakefield?

The Household Support Fund will be accessible all around the country.

The £421million fund budget will be spread across each council but each authority will decide its own eligibility.

Not all councils have published what they plan to do with the Household Support Fund budget yet.

If you’re keen to find out what support is available to you, you can contact your local council and ask if there is any help on offer.

For those unsure which council they should contact, you can find your council area by using the Government’s council locator tool via gov.uk.

The Sun recently shared a guide and interactive map to help you find out what you may be able to claim.

Other help on offer

You might be able to get some support from your energy firm if you haven’t received a Household Support Fund voucher.

For example, British Gas is handing out up to £1,700 worth of grants to UK households.

This is through the company’s Individual and Families Fund and is accessible to people living in England, Scotland, and Wales – even if you’re not a British Gas customer.

To be eligible to get this support you must have been given help from a money advice agency in the last six months.

You’ll also need to have not received a grant from British Gas Energy in the last six months.

Other energy companies have their own support network for customers.

These include OVO, Boost, E.On, E.On Next, EDF, Scottish Power, Octopus, Shell Energy, SSE and Utilita.

The Household Support Fund was first launched in October 2021 to help Brits pay their way through winter amid the cost of living crisis.

How has the Household Support Fund evolved?

Councils up and down the country got a slice of the £421million funding available to dish out to Brits in need.

It was then extended in the 2022 Spring Budget and for a second time in October 2022 to help those on the lowest incomes with the rising cost of living.

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The DWP then confirmed a third extension of the scheme through to March 31, 2024.

Former chancellor Jeremy Hunt extended the HSF for the fourth time while delivering his Spring Budget on March 6, 2024.

In September 2024, the Government announced a fifth extension.

Pharrell Williams on the True American Dream: “It’s About Doing What You Love”

Grammy-winning artist and philanthropist Pharrell Williams is urging Americans to redefine what they see as the “American Dream.” In a powerful speech at the Web Summit in Lisbon, he challenged society’s obsession with wealth and encouraged a shift towards career fulfillment, claiming that the dream isn’t about amassing wealth but about finding joy in one’s work.

The American Dream: Beyond Wealth and Status

Williams, a Virginia native, touched on the generational perspective that success is measured by financial prosperity. “In my country, we are raised to think about how to make the most money because our parents thought that way,” Williams explained. “They had this false sense of what the American Dream is or should be.”

With recent surveys showing that 47% of Americans believe the dream is either out of reach or simply a myth, Williams’ perspective reflects a growing sentiment that fulfillment, not finances, is the true measure of success. “The American Dream is not about making the most money,” Williams argued. “It should be about spending the most time doing something that you love.”

A 2021 YouGov survey revealed that American teens are increasingly interested in careers driven by passion, such as becoming a vlogger, YouTuber, or professional streamer. This shift, Williams noted, is at odds with previous generations’ ambitions, which often leaned towards traditional high-paying jobs like doctors and lawyers. Williams acknowledged the pressure many young people face to meet these expectations but urged them to follow their own passions, even if it means changing paths.

A Shift in Career Aspirations

Williams drew attention to the disconnect between parents’ career expectations for their children and young people’s evolving dreams. “Your parents told you they wanted you to be a doctor or a lawyer,” he said, recognizing that some individuals may find happiness in these roles. However, many discover that traditional career paths don’t align with their passions and ultimately decide to change direction.

Reflecting on the common pursuit of financially stable careers that may not bring happiness, Williams added, “The vast majority, they go after it and they don’t get it. And then they end up working somewhere they hate because it’s the next best thing financially.” He explained that prioritizing financial gain often results in unfulfilling work, which is why he believes it’s essential to focus on work that truly resonates with one’s interests.

Pharrell encourages young people to consider whether they would pursue a particular field if money were no object. “If you think about something that you love so much, that if you could snap your fingers right now and you’d never make any money but all your bills were paid—would you do it?” he asked the audience. His message is clear: the American Dream should be about achieving personal happiness and purpose, rather than strictly financial success.

The Role of Charity and Creating Opportunities

Williams’ advocacy for fulfillment over wealth isn’t just theoretical; he actively works to create opportunities for others through his charitable foundations, Yellow and Black Ambition. Yellow is focused on improving educational equity, and Black Ambition is dedicated to reducing the wealth inequality gap by supporting entrepreneurship. His charitable work reflects his philosophy on success—one that values equal opportunity and personal growth over traditional metrics of wealth.

Williams emphasized that the key to a fulfilling career doesn’t necessarily lie in achieving a “dream job” in the conventional sense but finding a way to engage with something one loves, even if it’s a supporting role. “If a person’s ideal job was to be a professional footballer but they weren’t suited to it, they could still find fulfillment as a coach, cameraman, or even a team coach driver,” he suggested. By aligning a career with one’s passion, Williams argues that people will find greater happiness and motivation in their work. “If you can find a vocation around something that you love, you now have a dream job. You will be the first one there and you’ll be the last one to leave.”

Redefining Success for Future Generations

In closing, Williams shared his belief that parents and society should encourage children to pursue work they love, rather than pushing them towards lucrative but potentially unfulfilling careers. “To me, that is what we should be telling our children—that is the way that we should be leading society—for people to do what they love.”

By focusing on fulfillment, Williams believes the next generation can redefine the American Dream to be one that values personal happiness and meaningful work. His call to action is clear: the true dream isn’t about wealth; it’s about living a life that brings joy and purpose. As Americans navigate shifting societal expectations and economic challenges, Williams’ perspective serves as a reminder that the essence of success lies not in money, but in the satisfaction of doing what one loves.